Equine dentistry There are changes occurring in some states of Australia with respect to Equine Dentistry. The issue has been looked at by various Animal Welfare agencies around Australia because of allegations, mainly regarding the overuse of power tools used by lay equine dentists (that is, non-veterinarians), causing problems such as burnt mouths, inability to eat hay, leading to colic and even death of the horse.

Current situation Under the Veterinary Practice Regulations 2005 basic equine dentistry is not considered veterinary treatment and can be carried out by lay people. However, restricted equine dentistry, ie equine dentistry involving the administration of an anaesthetic, sedative or analgesic can only be carried out in accordance with the directions of a veterinary surgeon.

Use of sedation Routine equine dentistry should be able to be carried out without the need for drugs. Any dental work involving use of sedatives or analgesia requires the supervision of, or referral from, a registered veterinarian.

Conditions for the dispensing, handling of restricted drugs are laid down in the Controlled Substances Act 1984 and its Regulations (administered by the Department of Health). Only licensed people may handle and dispense controlled substances (eg sedatives). It is unlawful for a lay equine dentist to carry and dispense controlled substances unless licenced by the Department of Health to do so.

Veterinarians are under continual pressure to provide restricted drugs to third parties. Due to problems of liability, they may choose to provide a single dose sedative direct to a client (ie owner of an animal, not a third party, such as an equine dentist) provided the person is a bona fide client, the client has been informed on safe use of the drug and informed of the potential for adverse reaction, and after care can be provided.